Carlo Ancelotti praises Gareth Bale

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that he is happy with Gareth Bale's contribution this season.

The Welshman has scored 17 times for Los Blancos this term, but he has faced widespread criticism from the club's supporters.

Ancelotti, however, has said that the 25-year-old is 'an important player' for the capital outfit.

"Bale had a fantastic season and he's still good now. He scored in two finals and they were key to completing our season. He'll be important if we're to make more finals," he told reporters.

Bale has been passed fit for the first leg of Real Madrid's Champions League quarter-final against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.